It sported laser cannons and proton torpedoes for armament. Described as being fast and highly maneuverable, with decent armament and defenses, the XJ9 was a well balanced starfighter, capable of fitting into most roles with impunity.

A popular choice for navies that liked something a little more durable and flexible from their starfighters, the XJ9 was a common sight in naval forces around the Galaxy. The forces defending the Yavin IV Jedi Praxeum, such as the Yavin 4 Defense Force and it's successors, were known as one faction to famously use the XJ9, preferring it as their multi-role Space Superiority Starfighter of choice. The XJ9 was known to make up the backbone of the Yavin IV Starfighter forces.